Bioengineering (Doctor of Philosophy)

Overview

The program in Bioengineering is interdisciplinary and offers the Doctor of Philosophy degree. Graduate students obtain the Ph.D. degree through a program administered by School of Engineering. The program is directed by Jason Bates (Medicine, School of Engineering) and administered by a curriculum committee comprising members from the School of Engineering and the College of Medicine.

Participating faculty with strong commitments to bioengineering research and education are from from the School of Engineering, the College of Medicine, and other departments and colleges across campus. The extensive research facilities of the participating faculty and departments are available to all graduate students enrolled in the program, and the program provides the flexibility necessary for students to gain competence in the area of their choice. Research includes: Bioinstrumentation, Biomechanics, Biomedical Imaging, Biomedical Systems and Signal Analysis, Clinical Engineering, Implant Design, Rehabilitation Engineering, Simulation and Modeling, and Biomathematics.

Students in the program are generally supported by sponsored research projects, participating departments and training grants. Inquiries about current research and funding opportunities should be directed to Pattie McNatt, School of Engineering, Burlington, VT 05405; Phone: (802) 656-8157.

General Requirements

Specific Requirements

Requirements for Admission to Graduate Studies for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy

Students applying for admission to the graduate program must meet the general requirements of admission of the University of Vermont Graduate College. Admission is competitive and students are selected on the basis of their scholastic preparation and intellectual capacity.

The following minimum preparation is recommended:

Biology, Chemistry: Two semesters each, or four introductory courses in the following subjects - anatomy, biology, biophysics, chemistry, physiology

Engineering: Two introductory courses in one or more of the following subjects - biomechanics, mechanics, thermodynamics, electrical engineering, control theory, or fluid mechanics

Mathematics: One course past differential equations

Physics: Two semesters of physics

Special arrangements may be made, on an individual basis, for students who are highly prepared in one area, but less well prepared in another.

Requirements for Advancement to Candidacy for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy

Completion of any deficient admission requirements.

Minimum Degree Requirements

Candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy must complete thirteen graduate credits of required courses (Advanced Bioengineering Systems, Complex Systems, Human Physiology & Pharmacology, and an advanced mathematics or statistics course) plus at least seventeen credits of approved technical electives. In addition, the candidate must complete a teaching requirement, pass a comprehensive examination, complete at least forty-five credits of thesis research, and pass a final oral examination.